The Best Free Things to Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam can be pricey, but some of its best experiences cost nothing at all. Here's how to enjoy the city for free.

Wander the canals and the Jordaan

The UNESCO canal ring and the Jordaan's lanes are the city's greatest free attraction — just walk and look up.

Relax in Vondelpark

The city's favourite park is free and lively, perfect for a stroll, a picnic, or people-watching.

Find the Begijnhof

A hidden medieval courtyard in the centre, a hushed oasis just steps from the busy Kalverstraat — free to enter.

The Civic Guards Gallery

A free, covered passage of giant Golden Age group portraits, part of the Amsterdam Museum — art without a ticket.

Ride the free Noord ferries

Behind Centraal Station, free ferries cross the IJ to Amsterdam Noord — a mini boat trip and a great view at no cost.

Browse the markets

Wandering the Albert Cuyp, Noordermarkt or the floating Bloemenmarkt is free — you only pay if you buy.

Explore the Nine Streets

The Negen Straatjes are full of independent shops and cafés; window-shopping and people-watching are on the house.

Catch sunset on the IJ

The waterfront behind Centraal and in Noord gives big open skies — one of the city's best free golden-hour spots.

String a few of these together and you've got a full day in Amsterdam for the price of your tram ticket.